The toxic plume was studied by Dr. Gary S. Chuang in the Department of Dermatology at Tufts Medical University at a meeting for the American Society for Laser Medicine and Surgery. After analyzing the black plume, Chuang and his team identified 300 different chemical compounds, 13 of which are harmful to humans and animals, including benzene, toluene, ethyl benzene, and diethyl phthalate.

There was no explicit confirmation connecting laser hair removal to the HPV cases, but Chuang's findings give credence to the theory that the process releases seriously nasty business.

What the experts are saying: although it's safe to receive laser hair removal treatments, the people who perform those treatments -- whether it's an esthetician in a salon or a healthcare worker prepping a patient for surgery -- are inhaling those toxic plumes day after day. Just a little food for thought if you're scheduling a laser hair removal procedure any time soon. Waxing suddenly seems ... enjoyable.